007- IA— Motivational Interviewing Level I, 10 Weeks, 2.5 hours per week

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

Appropriate client counselling experience and an understanding of the Stages of Change model as determined by the Study Area Chair.

CONTENT:

Motivational Interviewing Level I will focus on understanding the theoretical underpinnings and evidence supporting the use of this therapeutic approach for clients who are ambivalent about change.

Students will develop and practice beginning and advanced motivational interviewing skills through discussion, case studies and practice in class in pairs and small interprofessional groups.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

• To acquire knowledge about and understand the theoretical foundations and empirical support for motivational interviewing principles, strategies, spirit and skills.
• To practice and demonstrate simple and complex reflective listening techniques.
• To practice and demonstrate appropriate matching of motivational interviewing responses with client statements and their stage of change.
• To practice and demonstrate basic and advanced motivational interviewing techniques and approaches as per the client’s stage of change for resolving ambivalence and eliciting change talk.
• To practice and demonstrate approaches to negotiate a change plan.
• To engage in self-reflection that highlights emerging skills and areas to work on related to basic and advanced motivational interviewing.

FORMAT:

Readings from selected texts and articles; didactic and small group interactive learning.  Weekly exercises, role-playing, video material and feedback will be utilized.  Self-monitoring of skill acquisition and regular practice in clinical settings will be encouraged. 

 EVAULATION OF STUDENT PROGRESS:

• Weekly submission of observed and scored practice sessions including self-reflection of the session.
• Bi-weekly written assignments responding to simulated client statements demonstrating knowledge of motivational interviewing principles.
• Active participation in weekly exercises and practice sessions. Presentation to co-students demonstrating key skills during last session.
• Submission of an audio or video recording of a session with a simulated client who is resistant to change and a reflective paper on the strengths and areas to improve related to the demonstration of motivational interviewing principles.